The journey of pregnancy is filled with excitement, anticipation, and maybe a little bit of nervousness. While most babies arrive on their own schedule, around their due date, some may choose to come a little earlier. Preterm labour, also known as premature labour, refers to contractions and cervical changes that occur before 37 weeks of pregnancy. This blog aims to equip expecting parents with knowledge about preterm labour, its warning signs and symptoms, potential risk factors, and available management strategies.
Being informed about preterm labour allows expecting parents to be proactive in their health and well-being. Early recognition of signs and symptoms can lead to timely intervention and improve the chances of a healthy outcome for both mother and baby.
Here are some key signs and symptoms that might indicate preterm labour:
Not everyone experiences all these symptoms, and some may even have a completely different experience. It is crucial to contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any of these signs or symptoms suspecting preterm labour.
While the exact cause of preterm labour is not always known, certain factors can increase the risk. These include:
If you experience symptoms suggestive of preterm labour, your doctor will conduct a thorough examination to confirm the diagnosis. Management strategy will depend on the stage of labour you are in , the cervical dilatation, and the presence of any fetal complications. Here are some potential approaches:
While some risk factors are unavoidable, there are certain steps pregnant women can take to potentially lower their risk:
Preterm labour can be a stressful experience for expecting parents. Having a strong support system, including your partner, family, and friends, can be crucial during this time. They can provide emotional support, assist with tasks, and help you navigate the medical aspects of the situation.
Preterm labour can be a frightening prospect, but knowledge and preparation can empower expecting parents. By being aware of the signs and symptoms of preterm labour, timely intervention and proper medical care, many babies born prematurely go on to thrive and live healthy lives. We at Cloudnine Hospital are well equipped with neonatal ICU and Neonatologist to take care of the babies born prematurely.
A pregnancy reaches full term after 37 weeks. If uterine contractions start and lead to cervical changes, which may result in the baby’s birth before 37 weeks, it is preterm labour resulting in preterm birth. Not all preterm labours result in preterm delivery. Immediate medical attention is necessary to ensure the baby’s safety.
"The 6 warning signs of preterm labour include- *Constant ache in the lower back *Regular contractions every 10 minutes or less *Pressure on the pelvis *Abdominal cramps with or without diarrhoea *Change in vaginal discharge (watery discharge or bloody show) *Water breaking"
Unlike regular labour, preterm labour cannot be classified into stages. It can, however, be categorised based on how early the labour begins. When labour starts before 28 weeks, it is known as extremely preterm, between 28-32 weeks is known as preterm, and 32 to 37 weeks is known as moderate to late-preterm labour.
In most cases, preterm labour can be triggered by underlying health issues like gestational hypertension or gestational diabetes. Multiple pregnancies (carrying more than one baby) increase the risk of preterm birth. Issues with the placenta, cervix, uterus, or a history of preterm delivery increase the risk of preterm labour.
